Why Do Cats Wiggle Their Butts Before They Pounce?

Cats are one of the most loved pets around the world. However, cats are famous for their fascinating behavior and actions. Apart from that, the fantastic fluidity and pace are the characteristic features of them. Have you ever wondered why do cats wiggle their butts before they pounce? This activity is quite often observed in so many cats. So, to resolve this mystery, let’s discuss the key points.

Mystery Of Cats Wiggling Their Butts

Cats are considered fierce and not-so-friendly sometimes. But
the way that the cats wiggling their butts is a delight to watch. Even the big
cats like lion also shake their butts before pouncing. However, it is still a
mystery to many the reason behind it. In other words, only the cats might know
the actual explanation. Apart from that, many veterinarians believe the fact that
it is a prerequisite for the safe pounce.

Why Do Cats Wiggle Their Butts Before They Pounce?

Different Theories Behind The Cats Wiggling Their Butts

Some say that wiggling is a way of the cats to propel itself
before the take-off. Because it is observed that usually, cats walk by
alternating the legs. However, while pouncing, they use both the hind limbs
together. Furthermore, some theories say that it is another way of testing the
strength and reliability of the ground surface. As pouncing from a weak ground
and result into injuries also. It is also noted that this wiggle movement is
quite similar to that of a golfer before taking a shot.

Role Of Dopamine In The Cat Wiggle

According to Marilyn Krieger, a cat coach, there is a shoot
in the level of dopamine while cats wiggle their butts. Sometimes, dopamine is
released in cats while they play or hunt. Moreover, this dopamine might also
influence the wiggling and pouncing. It is a neurotransmitter which affects the
working of the brain very efficiently. So, it might be possible that the butt
wiggle is a way to release the energy before the attack.

Butt Wiggle In Cats: Instinct Or Learned

It is still not known whether the cats wiggle before
pouncing is an instinct or learned after birth. However, it will be best to say
that it is a mix of both. Another point to note is that the play of these cats
look adorable, yet it is a way to practice hunting. Moreover, before any physical
work, it is a prerequisite to do a bit of stretching or warm-up. Just like
that, it can be said that cats wiggle out of instinct. Cats wiggle is just like
swimming of a fish and flying of a bird.

Why Do Cats Wiggle Their Butts Before They Pounce?

Conclusion

Behavioral study of most of the animals is quite complicated
to understand. Just like that, a topic of discussion is why cats wiggle their
butts before they pounce. There are many explanations for it, but no one is
fully proved. So, it is best to say that it is just an instinct or requirement
of the cat to flex the muscles or check the ground before pouncing. Moreover,
it is also connected to the fact that a cat might be preparing for the hunt by
wiggling.